Essentials

READ ACTS 1:1-11 with a partner (both people should have their Bible open and take turns reading verse by verse)

Theme: POWER AND PURPOSE

Vs. 1-5. Recap of Jesus 40 days.  What does Jesus tell them to wait for?  What does this imply about the ability of humanity?

Vs 6 they ask Jesus a Question – "Restore Kingdom" = Israel and freedom from Rome.  The Apostles are still short-sighted in their view of the Kingdom.  Their hope for Jesus was far too small, focusing on temporary changes rather than his eternal kingdom.

7-8 Mission = receive Holy Spirit and be witnesses. 

Acts 1:8 is the THEME verse for the ENTIRE book!  (Verse Quiz coming next Tuesday over Acts 1:7-8)

9-11 Bodily Ascension!  Disciples watch.  Angels instruct.  Get to work.  Jesus will return visibly.

*How is Jesus’ post-resurrection teaching represented in the book of Acts?  Why do you think it was so important for the church that Jesus ministered after his resurrection?

(Answer: Final Preparation before Jesus leaves – Holy Spirit is coming, then go be witnesses.  They needed guidance on what was next!)

 What was Jesus doing at the beginning of Acts? What sorts of things seemed important to Jesus after his resurrection?

Jesus commanded his disciples to wait (and he taught) in Jerusalem until they were baptized by the Holy Spirit. His command gave them a place (Jerusalem), a purpose (be witnesses), and a promise (of the Holy Spirit), but they had to wait a few days to receive that promise. Preparation!

Discuss with your partner:

What are you hoping Jesus will do in your life? In your city? 

In what ways might your hopes be too small, or too focused on your “kingdom” on earth and not His Kingdom?

READ vs 12-26

Vs 12-14 WHAT are they praying for?  

Vs 16 “God breathed” prophecy that David spoke (Ps 69:25; 109:8)

Vs 17-20 Judas' end

21-26 Replacing Judas with Matthias by casting lots (there is no New Testament command to do such, this was unique as later early church leaders were chosen by their qualities. This emphasized a reliance on the Holy Spirit to help choose between 2 qualified candidates.  A core apostle is never replaced again).